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There are many different types of eyes contact lenses and each have their own purpose. It could be for vision correction, cosmetic reasons, or for medical protection. New technology in making lenses has made it possible to have different types of contact lenses such as daily disposable contact lenses, colored contact lenses, or even lenses for special lights. Below are some of the most prevalent kinds of contact lenses.
These are the lenses meant to correct vision problems. These include myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia, astigmatism, and other associated eye disorders. These lenses are designed to help the patient see as clearly and comfortably as they can. The good thing about these lenses is that unlike glasses these lenses provide a wider field of vision so the user does not need to accommodate for visual distortions that occur with glasses. Corrective contactlenses are further divided into:
This lens is made with the same curvature across the lens. The optical center of the lens is of equal thickness in all areas. This shape helps to correct nearsighted and farsighted vision. Sphearical lens seek to provide the user clear vision no matter how far or near the object is.
These lenses, which are also known as astigmatism contact lenses, are made of special optical designs. They use a combination of different powers in different meridians of the lens to counter the cornea's irregular shape. The result of this design, which combines two spherical curves and one cylindrical curve, is that the lens provides clear vision in both horizontal and vertical directions. This lens design helps to correct the vision for people who are either nearsighted or farsighted while also compensating for astigmatism. The lenses are made of materials that correct astigmatism by incorporating two spherical surfaces and a cylindrical surface. This design corrects astigmatism by providing two different diameters of power that address the blurriness on different orientations of the lens. These contact lenses stabilize themselves on the eye so that the correcting parts are aligned properly no matter the lens orientation.
A bifocal contact lens incorporates two or more prescription powers in a single lens. This lens, like eyeglasses, gives near and distance vision on one lens. One part of the lens, usually the lower segment, provides magnification for near vision activities such as reading or working on the computer. The upper segment, on the other hand, is meant for distance vision and is usually left unobstructed. The multifocal lenses incorporate multiple prescription powers in a single lens. Multivocal lenses enable the eye to focus at different distances by creating distinct optical zones for near, transitional, and far vision within the lens.
These are lenses that change the color of the eyes, the pattern or shape of the eyes, or both. Most of the cosmetic contact lenses are non-prescription lenses, although some are prescription lenses incorporated with the user's requests. These lenses only want to enhance or alter the user's eye appearance. Some of the lenses offer some amount of protection to the eyes from the dangers of UV radiation.
These lenses completely obscure the natural color of the wearer's eyes. These lenses are used to change the eye color to a new and more preferred one. For example, these lenses in-demand Halloween or cosplay users like.
These lenses are meant to slightly enhance the wearer's natural eye color. Unlike opaque lenses, these lenses are semi-transmissive and allow the wearer's irises to show through. These lenses are designed to add a subtle tint to the eye so that the wearer's natural color can show through. Only a small amount of pigment is added to these lenses, so they are meant for people with light eyes to achieve the desired effect.
These are special effect Contactlenses that change the wearer's appearance, pattern, or shape. These lenses can be either prescription or non-prescription and are usually made of a durable plastic i.e. hydrogel or silicone hydrogel. These lenses are in demand for various practical applications. These include theater or performance actors, special effects makeup artists, and Cosplay enthusiasts. The lenses are used to create various looks, such as changing the eye color to something more exotic, depicting fantasy creatures, or even making a freaky look for Halloween.
These lenses are used to help eye injuries, post-surgery recovery, and some eye diseases. These lenses aren't primarily focused on correcting vision or cosmetic purposes. They aid in the healing process by protecting the eye's surface. Some therapeutic lenses are also used with medications and are meant to retain therapeutic eye drops under the lens for an extended period. These include:
These are soft contact lenses placed over the eye to protect the corneal epithelium and aid in healing. They are meant to treat corneal abrasions, ulcers, or other injuries and give relief to the patient by reducing pain and discomfort from the injury. The lenses act like a bandage and protect the injured area while also helping to hold moisture and medication in place. In addition, the lens also provides a smooth surface for the eye, eliminating the pain that is caused by blinking and reducing light sensitivity.
These are rigid gas permeable lenses designed to temporarily reshape the cornea to correct refractive errors during the night while sleeping. These lenses are meant to provide clear vision during the day without any normal contact or eyeglasses.
The designs of the contact lenses vary in the lens modality, fit, and purpose of use, either for refraction or therapeutically. Technology used in making the lenses is rapidly evolving. The following are some of the most commonly used contact lens designs.
The scleral contacts are larger-diameter rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses that vault over the cornea and rest on the eye's sclera or the white part. They are usually used for people with irregular corneas such as in keratoconus, corneal transplants, or other serious conditions that affect the shape and clarity of the cornea. Because of their size, scleral contacts are able to create a new, smooth gas exchange surface over the unpredictable cornea and eliminate the eye's shape from dyslexia. Scleral lenses besides being ideal for keratoconus patients are also good for patients with severe dry eye conditions since they fill the tear layer beneath them and eliminate contact with the air.
These lenses combine the best of both worlds: the rigid gas permeable center provides clear vision, particularly for people with astigmatism, and the soft lens skirt around the eye for comfort. The RGP center of the lens sits on the cornea and provides optimal refraction for clear vision. The soft skirt surrounding the RGP center provides comfort like a soft contact lens. Hybrid lens design has come in handy, especially for people who need the correction that RGP lenses provide but cannot handle the initial discomfort of RGP lens fitting.
These lenses have been specifically designed for people with distinct characteristics or needs. These are individuals with irregular corneas due to previous surgeries such as corneal transplants, conditions like keratoconus, or other medical situations requiring eye therapy. These lenses may be softer or gas permeable, depending on the user. Specialty lenses are usually custom-made to accommodate the patient's eye shape and prescription.
Orthokeratology lenses are designed to gently reshape the cornea while the patient sleeps to correct refractive errors like myopia and astigmatism. These lenses conform to the unique shape of each eye, creating a custom fit. The lenses gently flatten the center of the cornea for myopic patients and reshape the cornea to correct astigmatism by creating a smooth, new optical surface.
When choosing contact lenses, many factors need to be taken into consideration so the right lenses can be selected. These include the individual's vision needs, lifestyle, eye shape, and overall health. Here are some points to help decide which contact lenses are ideal.
This refers to how frequently the lenses need to be replaced. Some of the lenses are meant to be worn daily and thrown away after a day's use. Others are worn for several weeks or months before they need to be replaced. Daily disposables are ideal for people who do not wish to bother cleaning and storing their lenses or who may not wear them every day. However, extended ones are more suited to people who regularly wear contacts and require more economical, long-term solutions.
There are two basic varieties. They are soft contact lenses, which are made from a flexible plastic called hydrogel or silicone hydrogel, and rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, which are made from a hard durable plastic that permits the passage of oxygen. The RGP lenses provide superior clarity of vision and are more durable even though they require an adjustment period. The soft ones are more comfortable right from the start and are more forgiving and easier to handle. Today, there are also ortho K lenses made from a special RGP material that temporarily reshapes the cornea to control myopia.
This includes factors like the base curve and diameter of the lens, which are very important since they need to match the individual's eye shape to improve comfort and vision. The lens design is paramount, especially for people who need specialty lenses fitted. Remember, only a qualified eye care professional can determine the proper lens prescription and fit by performing a contact lens examination and fitting. Clarity of vision aside, factors like lifestyle, daily activities, and personal comfort should influence which contact lens option is chosen. For instance, people with active lifestyles might want to contest, given their security and simplicity in handling.
Putting on and removing contact lenses requires care to avoid infections and make the lenses damage-proof. Trying to avoid getting water, soap, or other irritants on the lenses during use is also important. There are several interactions with medications, cosmetics, and other external factors that can affect the comfort and health of the eyes while wearing contact lenses.
Before inserting soft contact lenses, the lenses should be rinsed with a recommended contact solution to remove debris and ensure hydration. One should wash and completely dry their hands applying contact lenses. To insert the lens, one should place it on the tip of their index finger and examine it to confirm the lens is cupped correctly. The lens should be centered on the fingertip before gently pulling up the top eyelid with the other fingers.
With the eye open, the lens should be slowly placed on the eye. Blinking gently helps to seat the lens correctly. Repeat the process for the other lens. Afterward, to ensure the lens is comfortable and properly positioned on the eye, blinking a few times is recommended. During this blinking period, the lens will moisten and center on the cornea.
To remove soft contact lenses, wash and completely dry hands. Looking up, gently pulling down the lower eyelid to expose the eye and pinch the lens using thumb and index fingers to remove it is needed. After removing, rinse the lens with the recommended contact solution before storing it in the case. It's best to avoid wearing contact lenses while doing activities that involve exposure to water, such as swimming, showering, or using saunas, as this can lead to lens contamination or displacement. When using eye drops, it's also advised to check with an eye care professional to ensure they're safe for use with contact lenses, as some drops can cause irritation or cloudiness.
Household items such as cosmetics, skincare products, and certain medications can negatively impact the comfort and health of the eyes while wearing contact lenses. To prevent this from happening, it's prudent to use hypoallergenic, oil-free, and lens-friendly products, particularly around the eye area. The lens case and lenses must be replaced regularly to prevent growth in bacteria, which could cause infection. One needs to consult with an eye care professional to find safe and compatible products.
Q1: How frequently should contact lenses be cleaned and replaced?
Daily disposables are contact lenses that should be replaced daily. Conventional soft and gas permeable lenses may be replaced every 1-3 months, while orthokeratology lenses may be replaced every 1-2 years.
Q2: Can colored contact lenses cause damage to the eyes?
It is important to work with a qualified professional and obtain high-quality, approved lenses that allow the eyes to breathe and be properly fitted. In addition, proper lens hygiene and storage are important.
Q3: Do contact lenses offer protection from UV rays?
Some contact lenses offer additional protection from UV rays as they contain UV blockers, but they are not a replacement for sunglasses.
Q4: What causes red eyes with contact lens wear?
Eye redness is usually the result of dry eyes, lens over-wear, irritation, or lack of proper lens hygiene. Stopping lens wear and consulting an eye care professional is recommended.
Q5: Can J&J acuvue contact lenses be worn overnight?
A5
It depends on the specific lens type. Extended wear contact lenses are approved for overnight wear, while daily wear lenses should be removed before sleep.
